Intravenous therapy
What is an intravenous?
An intravenous is a thin, plastic tube called a
catheter that is put into a vein to give you fluid.
The catheter is attached to a solution bag hanging
on a pole. This is all called an IV. The type of
solution you have depends on your special needs.
The IV needs to go into a vein so the blood can carry
the fluid around your body. Most often, the IV is put
in your hand or forearm. An IV can be put in a foot,
upper arm or inner elbow.
You may have an IV lock called a saline lock.
This means that the catheter is attached to a very
short tube with a cap. When it is time for fluid or
medication, the cap is taken off and the catheter is
attached to a longer tube and solution. This is most
often done if you need an IV for medications but do
not need extra fluid.
Why do I need an IV?
There are many reasons for having an IV. Here are some reasons:
 to give fluids
 to give medication
 to give blood or blood products
please turn over 
Intravenous therapy
What is an IV pump?
Your IV may be connected to an IV pump. The nurses program the
pump to deliver the right amount of medications and fluids. It will
beep or alarm for different reasons.
What activities can I do with an IV?
After the IV is put in, there is no needle left in your vein. The tube is
held in your vein with tape. You can move your arm and hand being
careful as you move. You may do normal activities such as brush your
teeth, comb your hair, eat and write. Do not get your IV wet.
When should I call the nurse for help?
You can call your nurse for help when:
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your arm looks swollen
the skin around the IV looks red
the area around the IV feels sore, burning or painful
the drip is too fast, too slow or does not drip at all
the IV tape or site is wet
the tape is loose or falls off
the IV bag is nearly empty
the IV fluid is leaking from the system somewhere
the infusion pump is alarming
How long will I have an IV?
Your doctor or health care provider will decide how long you need the
IV. When you do not need an IV, your nurse will remove it. The IV
site will be covered with a gauze pad and tape. This dressing must be
left on for 24 hours to give the site time to heal.
For questions or concerns
Please feel free to talk to your nurse or a member of your IV health
care team.
©
St. Joseph’s Healthcare, 11/2004
Adapted with permission, 11/2005
PD 1323 - 04/2015
dpc/pted/IVTherapy-th.docx
dt/April 24, 2015